Insects in art

admin
, 24 May 2024
Insects in art
Louisa Crispin drawing at the reedbeds © Louisa Crispin

Nature has always featured in my life, but as a keen gardener, insects were largely incidental to the plants and I often considered them pests. This changed when I began drawing in 2009: a nest in the eaves brought Tree Bumblebees and I began to draw them from specimens found in the garden. Finding the 'Insect Watch' group run by Barry Yates was a catalyst - an introduction to the experts who could help guide me through the varieties as my experiences widened. I learned how to look and share my findings, adding to the wealth of historical information used in research.

Bumblebee
Study of a Bumblebee © Louisa Crispin

My drawings fall somewhere between observational scientific illustrations and decorative pictures, depending on my mood. I have little interest in colour - it's the underlying accuracy of structures, patterns and form that entice me to a particular subject. Although I mostly draw from specimens, observing in the field is very important to my understanding. If I’m lucky, I may see one or two fleeting examples in my garden but at Rye Harbour, I often find several capitalising on the abundance of food, returning to the same plant time and again. The 500m of path near the Reedbed entrance can often absorb me for 2 hours or more. Beneath the Willows there are ground nesting bees under the pathway, Willow Emerald Damselfly hiding amongst the branches and a plethora of Crane fly and Hoverfly lurking amongst the Hemp-agrimony.

Small White butterfly
Study of a Small White butterfly © Louisa Crispin


“Look closer” is my mantra and I hope to encourage others to do the same.

Louisa is currently exhibiting her drawings at the Discovery Centre. You can view her website, and more of her work, here.

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Comments

  • Vicki Hird:

    these are fabulous. So great to see someone focussing on the smaller beings!

    31 May 2024 09:32:00

  • Deanne:

    Fabulous. You have an amazing skill, Louisa. I particularly like the butterfly

    03 Jun 2024 10:49:00

  • Jonathan Chiswell Jones:

    Drawing is the way to understand how creatures and plants are constructed- and every time we draw, we learn a little more about our chosen subject. Congratulations on your work.

    21 Jun 2024 11:21:00

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